The Neolithic rock art of Valcamonica: reinterpreting the “topographic” motifs.

The Neolithic engraving cycle of Valcamonica is defined by a specific type of figures which, since their discovery, have been interpreted as “topographic”. The proposition is that these figures represent the anthropic environment: fields, hamlets, buildings, and agricultural infrastructure. This model has created an interpretative framework which has remained unchallenged. However, new archaeological findings and the documentation of newly discovered engraved rocks, mainly due to the Quattro Dossi project of the University of Pavia, may offer new interpretative possibilities. Firstly, a general overview of the Neolithic rock art phenomenon of Valcamonica and the Western Alps is given, explaining the chronology and spatial distribution. Secondly, the “topographic” interpretation is presented and the counter-arguments are explained, opening up new possibilities for interpretations. Thirdly, and lastly, a new interpretative framework is presented which tries to offer an integrated approach towards the figurative repertoire of the Neolithic rock art in Valcamonica.